Device-type handlers for remote control and monitoring of devices through a data network

Abstract

A method for providing automatic control of one or more devices in an environment including assessing information for the devices being paired with a hub or with a central server where the hub and the central server are configured to receive status messages from the devices and to issue commands to the devices; determining device-type handlers to use with the devices; installing the device-type handlers at the hub or the central server; installing an automation application on the hub or on the central server where the automation application responds to an event and issuing a command in response to the event; receiving a device-specific message from a source device at the hub or the central server; generating, using a device-type handler associated with the source device, a normalized event message; and providing the normalized event message to a processor in the hub or the central server.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]The idea of the “smart home” has been around since the 1950s but never became mainstream. However, with the advent of the Internet and the wide adoption of smartphones, the smart home concept or home automation can now be realized where appliances and devices in a home can be connected to the Internet and be capable of being monitored and controlled remotely. However, implementation of Internet controllable devices requires knowledge of networking, server management, communication protocols and also network security.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS[0002]Various embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.[0003]FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a web-based device automation system in embodiments of the present invention.[0004]FIG. 2, which includes FIGS. 2A and 2B, illustrates an example of a hub.[0005]FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a device which may be installed in an environ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is a web-based system for controlling and monitoring devices in a home or office. It allows for easy installation and use of smart home technology without requiring extensive knowledge of networking or server management. The system includes a central server and a hub that communicate over the internet or an intranet. The central server processes and controls the devices, while the hub connects the devices to the internet. This system simplifies the process of automating a home or office, making it easier for people to control and monitor devices from their computers or mobile devices.

Problems solved by technology

However, implementation of Internet controllable devices requires knowledge of networking, server management, communication protocols and also network security.

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